DPS Graduates 106 New Troopers

AUSTIN, September 26, 2008 - The Texas Department of Public Safety graduated 106 new troopers today at a ceremony in Austin. During the next three weeks, the troopers will move to their new duty stations across the state. They will spend the first six months in on-the-job training with a senior trooper.

State Rep. Frank Corte Jr. of San Antonio was the keynote speaker.

“I am proud of our state troopers and appreciate the sacrifices they have made to defend the men, women and children of Texas. During the last two weeks and in Hurricane Ike's aftermath, we have seen their dedication to protecting and serving our communities,” Corte said.

The troopers began the 28-week training academy in March. Instruction covered more than 100 subjects, including counter-terrorism, traffic and criminal law, arrest and control procedures, accident reconstruction, first aid and Spanish. They also received extensive training in use of force, communication skills, firearms, driving, criminal interdiction, cultural diversity and physical fitness training.

Col. Stan Clark, interim director of the DPS, told the graduates that the people of Texas will depend on them for safety and protection. “You are taking on a great responsibility when you wear the Highway Patrol uniform. Your fellow Texans will expect a lot out of you when you wear it, and you will be representing seventy-three years of excellence in law enforcement. Wear it with pride.”

Forty-one of the 106 graduates have former military experience. DPS encourages anyone with military experience who is interested in a career in law enforcement to consider state law enforcement. DPS currently is recruiting for a class scheduled to start in 2009. Anyone interested in becoming a state trooper can call the toll-free line, 1-866-TXTROOP (898-7667), or visit the DPS Web site, www.txdps.state.tx.us, for more information.

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